Southern MD Archers

Southern Maryland Archers (SMA) Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that's been the community's archery hub since the early 1990s. Located at 11000 Old Indian Head Road in Upper Marlboro, the club operates as a membership-driven organization where volunteers keep the range open and programs running.

Their motto says it all: "Safety & Fun!"

SMA maintains three distinct shooting areas:

12 lanes with adjustable distances (5, 10, 15, and 20 yards). Perfect for year-round practice and getting fundamentals down.

Variable distances available for archers who want to work on longer shots and field conditions.

Life-size game models in unmarked distances—members only. This recreates actual hunting scenarios for competition and practice, especially popular with hunters preparing for the field.

Junior Olympic Archery Development (JOAD) - Ages 8-20 - Teaches barebow, recurve, and compound shooting - Covers range safety, proper technique, focus, and self-confidence - Monthly practices (1st and 3rd Saturday) - Members earn JOAD Star Pins based on tournament scores - Opportunity to qualify for youth world teams

Adult Archery Program (AAP) - Ages 21 and older - Clear instruction via USA Archery's National Training System - Achievement pins and ribbons for progression - Builds upper-body strength, confidence, and team connections - Monthly practices (1st and 3rd Saturday)

Try Archery Classes New to archery? SMA offers introductory classes taught by certified instructors. Classes cover shooting basics, safety, and foundational skills in a welcoming environment.

Pro Archery Classes Advanced instruction on equipment maintenance: D-loop installation, peep installation, and other technical skills.

Add-On Programs: - JOAD: $30 first child, $10 each additional - AAP: $30 first adult, $10 each additional - Maintenance & Upkeep Fee: $140 (annual)

What's Included: - Limited use of club archery equipment - Expert support for equipment adjustments and repairs - Access to SMA leagues - 10% discount on coaching lessons - 10% discount on birthday parties, workshops, and activities - Quarterly USA Archery Virtual Tournaments - Access to PRO Archery classes - Monthly practice sessions

SMA is affiliated with three major archery organizations:

• •Maryland Archery Association (MAA) – Sets state competition rules and schedules
• •USA Archery – Sanctions 200+ annual events; conducts national championships
• •National Field Archery Association (NFAA) – Largest field archery organization in the world (founded 1939)

All instructors are certified through these organizations.

Beyond regular practice, SMA hosts: - Birthday parties (10% member discount) - Workshops and clinics - Seasonal tournaments and virtual competitions - Special events like 3-D shoots and skill challenges - Youth field trips and community outreach

The club describes itself as "a family-friendly place to pursue all things archery." Volunteering is built into membership—10 hours annually for full members, 5 for half-year members. An app tracks volunteer hours for perks and recognition.

• •Tour the facility: Schedule a club tour online through their booking system.

• •Try a class: Contact SMA to register for upcoming Try Archery classes in 2026.

• •Join as a member: Annual memberships run January 1–December 31; bi-annual option available July 1–December 31.

Contact: - Phone: (240) 257-2621 - Email: [email protected] - Physical: 11000 Old Indian Head Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 - Mailing: P.O. Box 337, Cheltenham, MD 20623